Lai Lai wanted, long ago, to become one of the Ga-Koro Marines, but did not pass the entrance test. She has since been working as a messenger, delivering items and messages between different villages. She also picked up the job of a part-time newswoman as she found growing interest in exploring the island and relaying stories to others.

One day Lai Lai met Helios and Rannin at Naho Bay as the two were talking. The two Toa engaged in a mock battle which Lai Lai watched from the side. Afterwards they split up.

Desiring to witness the Vault in Mangaia personally, Lai Lai went down the Ga-Wahi Darkwalk to Mangaia. There she was attacked by a Rahkshi of fire resistance, but was saved by several Toa, who also battled a Rahkshi of invulnerability and Rahkshi of dodge. One of the Toa, Ignitus, offered Lai Lai a position in the Red Star Voyagers, which she accepted. They then returned to Ga-Koro to begin the journey.

As the group set sail, a member of the crew, Oriak, suddenly betrayed them by killing Gravus, their navigator. Angered at his betrayal, Ignitus executed the rogue Toa, causing Lai Lai to contemplate about the evil inside some beings.

Lai Lai has a disciplined mind. Though curious and eager, she is also patient and careful in everything she does. She is known to take risks every once in a while though, as long as no one else is endangered. She is loyal to her friends and employers and is of a generally friendly nature. She has a tendency to stalk on others, which may creep many people out.

Due to being a Ga-Matoran, Lai Lai is a naturally adept swimmer and can hold her breath for longer than Matoran of other types. In contrast, her concentration and skill is weakened by hot and dry conditions.

"The sea is as good a place as any. It will care for the spirit and preserve it forever. The sea is pure, complete. But those with evil, disgusting spirits will only become food for the fish."— Lai Lai on burial at sea